East SOS Superteam: Our Furry Little Friends
The East SOS team is united by care for others – and our tailed companions play a special role in this shared mission. They accompany our specialists, bring comfort, and remind us every day of the importance of warmth and empathy.
Meet our furry little friends who have become an integral part of the East SOS team. You may have already spotted some of them in our stories, but today we’d like to introduce them properly and tell you a bit more about each of them.
Cheerfulness is Umka’s Credo
About three years ago, Anna Zaporozhchenko, a psychologist at East SOS, met a dog with a calm, thoughtful look at an animal adoption exhibition in Mykolaiv. He had been found on the streets of the Kherson region. His eyes were full of kindness and calm – and they instantly touched Anna’s heart. That’s how Umka found a home and loving care.
On his very first day at home, Umka enthusiastically began “renovating” the place – but quickly ran out of energy. Soon it became clear that interior design was not his true calling. His real passion is water. Umka loves rolling in the snow, swimming in the river, and seems to dream of becoming a fish – just so he never has to leave the water.
“I don’t comment very often – not because I’m shy, but because I have a busy schedule. I live life to the fullest: running, exploring the world, and enjoying every day. I’ve learned that support is a must-have in any relationship. That’s why I plan to meet our supporters more often. I’m sure my love of life can bring everyone at least a little warmth, peace, and joy,” says Umka.
Masiania, a Newly Arrived Tailed Assistant
Masiania joined the furry superteam quite recently. At the end of October, she was adopted by Yaroslav Taranets, a lawyer at East SOS. On cool autumn days, having a little companion nearby – one who is always ready to comfort you with a cheerful wag of her tail – is especially precious. Gentle and responsive, Masiania quickly became a daily source of calm and support.
Masiania breaks common stereotypes about Chihuahuas. She is incredibly sociable and has never shown aggression. She loves being the center of attention and happily cuddles in your arms. At the same time, this tiny dog is a true companion, accompanying her human almost everywhere.
“I could easily become a star –there are so many admiring looks around! But my plans are much more serious. I dream of becoming an ambassador of kindness and protection. These values became close to me as I started watching the work of the Human Rights team at East SOS,” says Masiania.
Spacey the Tortoise – a Symbol of Hope
We have already introduced Spacey the tortoise, who lives in Zatyshno Space in Kharkiv. Her first owner was forced to leave the country because of the full-scale war and was unable to take her beloved pet along. The East SOS team rescued Spacey and gave her a new home. Since then, Spacey has been reminding us of the sea – the shores we all dream of returning to. She also helps visitors momentarily step away from everyday worries and stress, bringing calm and comfort.
“I love it most when children stop by my aquarium. They can watch me swim for a long time and forget about their worries for a while. Moments like these make me feel that I have a special mission here,” says Spacey.
Fun fact: Spacey became the first ambassador of East SOS’s Humanitarian Program and now, together with her furry colleagues, regularly “delivers” aid to places where it is needed most.
Barney Is a Reliable Office Colleague
Anastasiia Petriuk, project and team manager at East SOS, took care of Barney, a Maltese dog, when he was just six months old. Now three years old, this tailed colleague has truly become part of the team.
Energetic and endlessly curious, Barney is always on the move. He loves to play and interact with people and his fellow furry friends. Barney also has strong leadership qualities – during online meetings, he never fails to remind everyone of his presence with a loud “woof!” and enthusiastically tries to “present” the strategic projects of the tailed superteam.
“Movement is life! In the team, I’m responsible for energy and internal communication. I get along well with my colleagues and I’m always open to good deeds. I even have my own Instagram page –I’m sure my photos can bring warmth and lift your spirits!” shares Barney.
Each of these furry friends contributes to East SOS’s shared mission in their own way, filling it with warmth and joy. Join us as an ambassador of kindness and support charitable initiatives together with East SOS.
Read more about other members of the East SOS team here.
